The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has filed a reference against the Chief Election Commissioner. And four members, alleging misconduct and demanding an inquiry into their actions.
Filing of the Reference PTI
PTI’s Secretary General, Omar Ayub, filed the reference through Barrister Ali Zafar. The reference requests an inquiry into the alleged misconduct of the Chief Election Commissioner and the four members. If these allegations are proven correct. PTI demands their removal from office.
Allegations of Misconduct PTI
PTI’s complaint lists incidents before and after elections, such as not conducting transparent elections as mandated by the Constitution. PTI claims that officials expelled its polling agents from polling stations, the ECP failed to announce results according to the law, and it overlooked pre-poll rigging. They allege no action was taken when PTI members were forced to change loyalty during press conferences. Additionally, PTI claims that officials forcibly snatched nomination papers from their candidates and kidnapped party workers.
Media Coverage and Election Campaign Issues
PTI alleges that the ECP restricted media coverage only for PTI while allowing other parties, including PML-N, to have unrestricted coverage. They claim the ECP delayed providing forms 45 to media persons and polling agents, which delayed the announcement of results. PTI asserts that the ECP did not allow it to conduct its election campaign freely. They claim the politically motivated appointments of ROs excluded reserved seats for women and disabled individuals, showing bias against them in court cases.
Barrister Ali Zafar’s Statement
Barrister Ali Zafar said that Imran Khan had directed him to file this petition against CEC Sunil Arora and all those who have violated the Constitution repeatedly, especially during the last two years. We noticed several violations and submitted an application. Sunil Arora violated the Constitution by refusing to hold the National Assembly, Punjab Assembly, and KPK Assembly within 90 days. He made many decisions against our leader, which showed his bias towards him,” Zafar said.
Accusations of Election Rigging
PTI believes the ECP rigged the general elections. “When our candidates were being arrested, the ECP turned a blind eye and did not fulfill its responsibility,” said Zafar.
He also accused the ECP of illegally removing PTI’s election symbol and misinterpreting the Supreme Court’s decisions.
PTI’s reference against the Chief Election Commissioner. And four members has opened up another front for the party in its ongoing confrontation with the Election Commission of Pakistan. PTI has sought an investigation into alleged misconduct. While demanding their removal from office if found guilty, thus again indicating their lack of trust in the electoral system.
